Family-Friendly Restaurants in Dallas
Let’s face it. When taking kids out to eat, they’re usually less concerned with actual food consumption than having a fun time. So it’s important to find the perfect balance of creative, quality food that adults will love in an atmosphere that allows children to let loose (within reason, of course). These top spots offer a little something for everyone in the family, as well as nearby options for keeping the good times going.
Updated November 2024
Birdie’s East Side
Occupying a former Luby’s Cafeteria space on Mockingbird Lane, Birdie’s East Side has transformed the neighborhood by providing a fun spot for the entire family. (There’s an adults-only section, too, for anyone wanting a break from children). Otherwise, settle in on the massive patio and order up some loaded fries, spinach artichoke dip or chef-crafted entrées to enjoy over frozen cocktails while the little ones partake in options from the special kids menu.
Hat Creek Burgers
Kids have so much fun at Hat Creek, you can hear the joy in the air the moment you park. Here, they’re encouraged to play, play, play, possibly having a bite or two of food in between time on the playground. Kids meals include nuggets, hot dogs, grilled cheese or tiny burgers. Meanwhile, Mom or Dad can enjoy craft beers and wine with their adult-size burgers and entrée salads. With any luck, the kids will leave exhausted and ready for bed.
Smoky Rose
Before or after you take the kiddos to the Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden at the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, dine on the sprawling patio with some authentic Texas barbecue, cold beers, live music, fire pits and games. It’s dog-friendly, too, so bring the whole two-legged and four-legged gang if you feel so inclined.
ArtPark Trinity Groves
Take full advantage of patio season at Trinity Groves’ ArtPark, an ample outdoor space with art, lawn games, beer and cocktails. Grab food from Coin Toss, the on-site sports bar known for burgers, wings and foot-long hot dogs. Catch your favorite teams on one of 30 outdoor TVs or take in views of the downtown Dallas skyline while the kids play.
Magic Time Machine
Kids can’t get enough of Magic Time Machine—because this is no ordinary restaurant. It's an adventure. The dining rooms are each unique, with eclectic décor and funky themes throughout. And the best part? Every server dresses and acts as heroes and villains from your favorite movies, books and television shows. Will it be Jack Sparrow, the Joker or Moana serving you? You'll just have to show up and see.
Thunderbird Pies
Most kids love pizza, so it’s worth exposing them to a different style now and again. Thunderbird Pies, a Detroit-style pizzeria, serves rectangular pizzas with thick, buttery crusts. Order a Budd (basic cheese pizza) for the kids before sending them off to the small collection of arcade games, while perusing for adult options, including the Chicky Parm or spicy Supa Fly. It’s also BYOB with no corkage fees if you wish to bring your own wine.
Eddie's Tex Mex Cocina
With a colorful patio and great views of everything along Greenville Avenue, Eddie's is an excellent Tex-Mex option for the whole family. Go with a classic combo or a customer favorite like the stuffed chicken. Just be sure to save room for dessert because Eddie's is just steps away from some stellar after-dinner options like Botolino Gelato Italiano and Val’s Cheesecakes.
Benihana
One of the pioneers in Japanese teppanyaki-style dining, Benihana’s two Dallas locations offer an incredibly fun dining experience experience that kids adore. From the unmistakable architecture to its famous koi pond, you'll be transported to Asia without ever stepping on a plane. Once seated, prepare to marvel as talented chefs play with fire—and your food—for laughs and screams of delight before digging in.
More Family Fun
